Seaway entrance survey guides ongoing channel maintenance

We’re keeping Gold Coast waterways accessible, safer and well managed. At the Gold Coast Seaway entrance, the final survey following the dredging campaign gives us a clearer picture of the sand trap and the work needed to maintain it.

The survey comparison shows a reduction of 105,684 cubic metres of sand at the Seaway entrance between 13 August and 11 October 2026. GCWA is also preparing to start dredging in the North and South Channels, continuing its program of maintaining key navigation routes.

Understanding the survey result

The 105,684 cubic metre reduction is the overall change measured between the pre- and post-dredge surveys.

Hopper records show 65,354 cubic metres removed by the dredge, Trud R. Natural sand movement is considered to have contributed to the additional reduction recorded in the surveys.

The comparison image below shows where seabed levels have changed at the Seaway entrance, highlighting areas where sediment levels have fallen.

What happens next at the Seaway entrance

The final survey records the depths achieved. Further surveys over the coming months will track changes in sediment volume within the entrance sand trap and help inform future maintenance planning.

Sand continues to move after a dredging campaign ends. Monitoring those changes helps GCWA understand conditions and plan its response.

Preparing for the North and South Channels

The next stage of the dredging program is approaching, with work in the North and South Channels due to start soon.

These works support GCWA’s priority of maintaining key navigation channels to keep waterways accessible. Further information about the start of works, expected timing and advice for waterway users will be provided through the project webpage and relevant navigation notices.

Our focus is maintaining key channels, strengthening monitoring and compliance, looking after essential infrastructure and working with our partners.

Working in partnership

Thank you to the City of Gold Coast for working alongside us on the Seaway entrance dredging project. Working together helps our organisations achieve shared goals for safer, more accessible waterways.